Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will set out changes that we have made in response to some of the pressures the Deputy outlined. For example, the quota restriction on permits for bricklayers and plasterers, which was first introduced as part of a package in 2019, was eliminated in June 2022, giving those occupations unrestricted access to the general employment permit system. In October of the previous year, a package of occupations were made eligible, including tilers, painters and decorators. We respond each year. Each summer, we effectively go through a consultation process and try to respond afterwards. Of the 100 written submissions to the consultation process, 15 came from the construction sector. That says a great deal about the pressure therein.

All I will say is that we will respond. Obviously, I do not want to give the Deputy an indication because the process has not concluded.

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